Ruinart, the longest established champagne house, was founded in 1729. It is based in Reims and currently part of the LVMH group. At the time of Louis XIV, one Dom Thierry Ruinart (1657-1709), a Benedictine monk from Champagne, was working in the Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés in Paris. Here, he became aware of worldly society and the "bubbling wine" that was all the rage with young aristocrats. He inspired his brother and nephew, who were still living in Champagne, to start producing this wine. 20 years after his death (in 1729), his nephew Nicolas Ruinart founded the eponymous champagne house – the very first in history. Maison Ruinart owns some fantastic chalk tunnels which it uses as cellars and have UNESCO world heritage status. The house remained a family-run business for almost two centuries before entering the LVMH fold. However, it has retained its independence and kept its own unique style, nurtured by the cellar master Frédéric Panaïotis. With their high Chardonnay content, the champagnes are delicately mineral, and often have some chalky notes and a fruity and floral aromatic palette. Their very light character makes for a particularly good aperitif. The house has also wisely refreshed its white and rose Dom Ruinart prestige cuvées. The vineyards are located primarily on the Montagne de Reims and complemented by supplies from a few other very selective areas. Ruinart is unquestionably one of the most famous champagnes in the world.